Gordon Pinsent

Gordon Edward Pinsent (July 12, 1930 – February 25, 2023) was a Canadian actor, writer, director, and singer. His extensive roles included performances in Away from Her, The Rowdyman, John and the Missus, A Gift to Last, Due South, The Red Green Show, and Quentin Durgens, M.P. For many years, he lent his voice to the character of King Babar in the Babar the Elephant television and film productions. He began his acting journey on stage in the 1940s and evolved into radio drama, TV, and films. He also served the Canadian Army for about four years as a private in the Royal Canadian Regiment. Pinsent's professional acting career kick-started in 1957, and he became an integral part of Canadian television with numerous TV series roles. He also wrote screenplays for The Rowdyman and John and the Missus. One notable character he played was Hap Shaughnessy on The Red Green Show. Besides acting, Pinsent had published two memoirs. He was also chosen as the honorary chairman of the fundraising campaign for The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum. Pinsent had guest roles in TV shows like Life Doesn't Frighten Me and Republic of Doyle and gained popularity for his dramatic reading of Justin Bieber's autobiography on This Hour Has 22 Minutes. Towards the end of his life, he was honored with numerous awards in recognition of his contributions to the performing arts.